The Soma Institute Provides an Alternative Career to Help Survive the Recession

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–In the midst of a recession, The Soma Institute-The National School of Clinical Massage Therapy has reached a 98 percent job-placement rate, as reported this year to the Illinois State Board of Education. Those who have either lost their jobs or recently entered the workforce have chosen to return to school for the opportunity of an alternative career.

“Our Career Services department,” states Barry Wright, director of Career Services, “has an excellent placement rate and assists graduates with placement and career guidance on a continuing basis both in and outside of Illinois.”

Wright works with graduates and employers to find the best employment niche for both. “This is one of the most satisfying parts of my position at Soma,” states Wright. “I take great pride in uniting the career aspirations of graduates with the needs of the employers. When both the graduate and employer benefit, the end result has often led to a long-term working relationship and in many cases opportunities for other graduates at the same location.”

With two diploma programs available, one in Clinical Massage Therapy and the other in Master Clinical Massage Therapy, The Soma Institute provides several scheduling options, financial aid for those who qualify, a department whose primary focus is on student success and a career-services office that boasts alliances with more than 900 employers throughout the Chicagoland area and beyond.

Joan Hannant, president and founder of The Soma Institute, states, “There has never been a better time to enter this rewarding profession. In these difficult times, people need massage more than ever. We are so proud of our graduates and their outstanding career achievements and contributions to the community.”

The Soma Institute, located in downtown Chicago, Illinois is a national leader in the clinical massage therapy field, establishing and maintaining a high standard of excellence through its continued focus on clinical evaluation. With a 98 percent job-placement rate, as reported to the Illinois State Board of Education in 2010, Soma graduates enjoy the luxury of choosing virtually any career in the field of massage therapy. For more information, visit www.soma.edu.

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